Air France denies transporting weapons to Israel after union allegations

Air France on Thursday denied transporting weapons or ammunition to Israel after several unions alleged that a shipment of mechanical components destined for an Israeli arms manufacturer was scheduled to depart aboard one of its flights, Anadolu reports.

The airline told broadcaster franceinfo that it had no booking for the cargo identified by the unions.

“Air France has no reservations for this type of merchandise on its flights, on the date indicated or any other date,” it said.

“Air France does not transport weapons or ammunition on its flights to Israel,” the company added, saying it complies at all times with international regulations governing the transport of goods.

READ: Rights groups sue France over failure to stop corporate support for Israel’s occupation

The denial followed a joint statement issued Wednesday evening by the CGT and Solidaires unions in the Seine-Saint-Denis department, along with several affiliated airport unions.

The unions alleged that mechanical components intended for an Israeli weapons manufacturer were due to be transported aboard flight AF966.

The flight was scheduled to depart Paris’ Charles de Gaulle Airport for Tel Aviv at 9.35 am (0735GMT) Thursday, according to the report.

READ: France authorizes Netanyahu’s plane to cross airspace en route to UN General Assembly